I have inspected several older homes that have old rubber insulated/cloth covered wiring, no ground wire. Is suggesting AFCI breakers a possible safety feature in lieu of replacing all the wiring? What about AFCI outlets? Will this help in at least tripping the circuit IF there is an issue? I do understand that if there is arcing that you then have to track down that issue and fix it, but will AFCI breakers provide some protection on old and dry rubber insulated wires?
It will, recommend as you please
The suggested outlets for “no ground” are GFCI. These will work without the ground providing shock protection. They should be installed with stickers provided stating no equipment ground.
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Agree with Robert. GFCI is the best low-cost protection for two conductor circuits. Usually, an electrician can locate the top of a circuit and put a GFCI outlet to protect the downstream two or three-prong ungrounded outlets or put a combo AFCI/GFCI breaker on the circuits if there is room in the panel.
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I agree with GFCI being the higher priority. However, IMO the potential for arc faults increases with the age of the electrical components (panels, circuit breakers, wiring, connectors). GFCI primarily protects the occupants (from electrocution), whereas AFCI primarily protects the home (from electrical fire). I suggest that homeowners incorporate (add, upgrade) AFCI circuits where recommended (e.g. all 120V circuits) regardless of the age of the home.
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One could use an Afci/Gfci Recptacle also.
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